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Pride month is the biggest month of the year on the LGBT+ calendar. It’s a time when the LGBT+ community and their allies take to the streets to celebrate diversity, equality and increased visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. While Pride month is full of fun and celebrations, it is important to remember the history of our traditions in order to recognise the impact LGBT+ people have on the world.
This year marks the 52nd anniversary of the Stonewall Riots which began in June 1969. After New York City police raided the famous gay bar, the Stonewall Inn, bar patrons and locals initiated a six day protest opposing police treatment of the LGBT+ community. These protests paved the way for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States and around the world and are now universally celebrated with Pride festivals.
The LGBT+ community are one of many communities often disproportionately affected by poor health and social inequalities, the Covid-19 pandemic has exposed deep-rooted inequalities for LGBT+ people and has demonstrated that these inequalities can have horrendous and even fatal consequences. From social isolation, being denied access to access to prescribed and scheduled hormone injections, to domestic abuse and substance abuse.
From volunteer led community groups, to large corporations, there are individuals and organisations across the country undertaking inspiring and innovative work to try bridge this inequalities gap and we thank you.
What can you do to help?
Nick Prentice is a global volunteer at One HealthTech and Senior Business Manager at NHS England & NHS Improvement, and has worked in health & social care for over 9 years.
Twitter: @NickPrentice3
